The natural beauty of Colorado Springs invited explorers to the base of Pike’s Peak in the early 1800s, and it has been a hub for those who relish the outdoors ever since. Hikers rejoice in the many, many trails throughout and around the city all year round.
1. Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon.
Located off of Highway 24 West, Red Rock Canyon Open Space has many trails for visitors to love. The hiking is pretty easy here, and the sights are spectacular.
Trail dog.
Hikers can walk up and over the rocks where supplies were quarried for the buildings in Old Colorado City and look down across the land for spectacular views of Garden of the Gods. The large rocks that seem to burst forth from the ground start in the Garden of the Gods and continue on in a visible line up through Red Rock Canyon where hikers can climb and explore to their heart’s content.
Pets on a leash are welcome here, making it an ideal place for exercising with a furry friend. Bikers also appreciate the miles of challenging trails at Red Rock. Longer, more difficult trails are also available towards the back of the open space if hikers are looking for something more demanding. Red Rock Canyon has some shade, but not a whole bunch, making it a great place to be in the milder seasons of spring and fall.
2. Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Sunset over Pikes Peak.
On the southwest side of town lies Cheyenne Mountain State Park. This natural area is home to roughly 20 miles of trails and also campsites. As hikers make their way up Cheyenne Mountain, the trails get harder and the scenery gets lovelier—the lights of Colorado Springs twinkle in the distance as the plains roll along beyond the city limits.
Outstanding Front Range views.
Cheyenne Mountain is one of the best places in town to bring the family; everyone will delight in the chance to go on a wildlife hike guided by a park ranger or experience a high-tech treasure hunt when geocaching.
3. Bear Creek Canyon
Bear Creek Canyon Park.
Bear Creek is for the active hiker who needs things to see while they are hitting the trail. At the Jones Park Meadow the trails splits and there are several options to take. Old mining tunnels, waterfalls, bridges—you name it. It’s an adventurer’s paradise.
Creekside picnic table.
Take some time to explore all of the intricacies that make Bear Creek special or summit some of the local peaks (Mount Kineo, Mount Arthur, Mount Garfield).
4. Rampart Reservoir and Rainbow Gulch
Rampart Reservoir trail.
About 45 minutes outside of town and up into the mountains lies Rampart Reservoir and Rainbow Gulch. This particular trail is an excellent choice for hikers who like to stay active year round—it can certainly be a workout.
Pikes Peak across reservoir.
Strap on the snowshoes and hike one and a half miles through Rainbow Gulch. If you choose to enjoy the silent beauty of the freshly fallen snow, continue on around the reservoir for a grand total of thirteen and a half miles.
5. Manitou Springs Incline
Manitou Springs Incline. [Photo: sfgamchick via CC]
Situated in Manitou Springs, this is not your typical trail. Originally a cable car ran here, bringing visitors up the steep hillside at a 40% grade, but today, only the wooden ties remain. Just shy of one mile, the Manitou Springs Incline is the perfect way to test your skill and endurance.
2000 steps. Photo: Mariana Wagner
Hikers who are still feeling strong at the top can continue on through several other trails waiting to be traversed at the top or take a leisurely stroll down Barr Trail which leads back to the trailhead in the Cog Railway parking lot.
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